RCA SHOW 2013

Daniel McLaughlin

Innovation Design Engineering

Sheep farming is one of the primary cornerstones of the New Zealand economy. Processes unique to New Zealand wool farming date back to the inception of the country. Wool prices are historically volatile, and traditionally farmers have focused on farming and had limited control of their product after it was sold. Farming is undergoing a renaissance to modernise processes. Inline with this trend ‘Biowool’ is my remote contribution to the farming community.

‘Biowool’ is the output from materials exploration focused on adding value to coarse wool. Through the exploration into the wool value chain, high volumes of post-industrial and post-consumer waste were identified as a space for potential innovation – extending the applicability and longevity of woollen product before it eventually becomes composted as part of the eco cycle.

‘Biowool’ was developed through the formation of an unreleased bio-resin and carded wool waste fibre. ‘Biowool’ has wide potential for application and poses suggestions for revising a number of materials applications. As showcased in the Terracase luggage range, ‘Biowool’ introduces new standards in luggage design – from traceability of materials to source, to total product authenticity.

‘Biowool’ rethinks wool with new functionality, new context and new marketability.